Mental Health Awareness Policies.

Jedforest Instrumental Band

Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy

Introduction

Mental health can be defined as a state of well-being in which an individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community (World Health Organisation 2014).

As confirmed in a WHO Report of 2001, one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. This Policy is therefore based on the principle that many people will, at some point during their lives, experience a period of depleted mental wellbeing. The term “mental health difficulties” is one which encompasses a wide range of experiences which may affect an individual's ability to balance his/her life. Such difficulties can range from stress and anxiety through to serious mental health conditions, diagnosed and treated by the health services.

In its use of the term mental wellbeing, this Policy is talking about emotions, life satisfaction and how people function day to day; individuals’ notions of self-acceptance and their positive relations with others. While some members who experience mental ill health may experience good mental wellbeing; others who do not have diagnosed mental illness may nevertheless experience poor mental wellbeing and diminished quality of life. In referring to mental wellbeing, this Policy is intended to be relevant to all.

Aims

It is the policy of Jedforest Instrumental Band to:

- Promote and improve mental wellbeing and support members who may experience mental health difficulties;

- Tackle discrimination arising from mental ill health difficulties and ensure members are treated with sensitivity and confidentiality;

- Develop an environment and culture that promotes mental wellbeing and supports members experiencing depleted mental wellbeing;

Principles

This Mental Health & Wellbeing Policy takes a positive and inclusive approach in order to promote and strengthen the mental wellbeing of all members.

Objectives

1. Promote good mental wellbeing

1. Promote the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’ (connect, be active, take notice, keep learning, give)

2. Reduce discrimination and stigma by increasing awareness and understanding of mental wellbeing issues.

3. Develop an environment where help is available and confidential

1. Support members with mental health issues

   1. Ensure individuals suffering from mental health issues are treated fairly and consistently.

   2. Treat all matters relating to individuals and their mental health problems in the strictest confidence; to share information on a ‘need to know’ basis only, with consent from the individual concerned.

   3. Have access to literature, web sites and contacts and support individuals through these contacts.

Appendix – contacts and literature

https://www.supportinmindscotland.org.uk/

https://charliewaller.org/

http://www.nhsborders.scot.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/our-services/children-young-peoples-services-directory/health-improvement-team/mental-health-and-wellbeing/